What is reality therapy?

Reality therapy is a therapeutic approach that psychologist Dr. William Glasser developed in the 1960s.

It prioritizes practicing skills and techniques that ground a person in reality rather than exploring past experiences or using abstract concepts such as the subconscious.

A key principle of reality therapy is something called “Choice Theory,” which Glasser also developed. Choice Theory emphasizes that individuals have control over their behaviors and can choose how to respond to situations.

Using Choice Theory, reality therapy helps individuals learn to be more aware of their choices and how some choices may not benefit their current situation and life goals.

Reality therapy also uses something called the WDEP system, which stands for “wants, doing, evaluation, and planning.” The WDEP system involves the following:

• Wants: The therapist works with an individual to explore what they want out of their life, such as their dreams, aspirations, and goals.
• Doing: They will then discuss what the person is currently doing to achieve these wants.
• Evaluation: The individual and their therapist then evaluate whether their current behaviors and actions align with what they want in life. They will discuss which choices are harmful and beneficial to their life goals.
• Planning: Finally, the therapist and individual will work together to come up with choices and actions that suit their life goals, and plan ways to change their behavior. 

The proposed benefits of reality therapy revolve around the therapy’s key principles. According to the Glasser Institute for Choice Theory, these include the following:

• It focuses on the present: Reality therapy encourages individuals to focus on their current behaviors and relationships rather than past events, promoting active problem-solving in the present.
• It encourages personal responsibility: Therapists encourage people to take responsibility for their actions and understand how these choices affect their lives and relationships.
• It is goal-oriented: Reality therapy aims to help individuals identify their goals and develop plans to achieve them, fostering a sense of agency.

Although it may have benefits, reality therapy may have a limited outlook as it does not take into account or address all factors that motivate and influence behavior.

Proponents of reality therapy avoid discussing behavioral influences outside of a person’s choices, for example, their past experiences, economic situation, and physical health.

Some people might feel that these aspects of their lives are important influencers of their behavior and may want to discuss these with a therapist.

Additionally, proponents of reality therapy may wish to avoid discussing symptoms and complaints, as they believe these are ways that people choose to handle dissatisfaction in their lives. Some people may feel that this minimizes or ignores their experiences.

A person may wish to ask a doctor for more information on reality therapy or access more mental health resources below.